New zoo opens in Valencia, Spain

Vani RangacharLos Angeles Times Staff Writer

Valencia, Spain, is continuing to create showcases for creatures great and small. The city this month opened the first phase of Bioparc Valencia. The $94-million zoo has re-created savanna and African rain-forest habitats for zebras, lions, gazelles, gorillas and leopards in a 25-acre park that houses 4,000 animals.

Habitats for Southeast Asian and Central and South American animals are on tap next. The city is already home to one of Europe's largest aquariums. Admission to the Bioparc costs about $32 for adults and $24 for children. Info: www.bioparcvalencia.es.